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University bosses will allow him to complete his final year of his business management degree over the next two years and are offering their support while he recovers.

David, of Tonge Roughs in Middleton, says there is 'no question' he will finish his studies and the injury has given him a 'new perspective' on life.

Friends and loved ones have raised more than £5,000 to allow him to return to university and carry out modifications to the family house to allow him to return home.

David Eastham was a keen rugby, football and cricket player before the horror accident

The idyllic Koh Samui will sadly hold bad memories for 20-year-old David Eastham

The family hope further money could be raised to buy a sports wheelchair for David who played football, rugby and cricket.

Speaking about the donations, standing at more than £5,500 so far and all the messages from friends, family and well-wishers, David said: 'I was fortunate to have a lot of help beforehand from friends and family but it's so touching to get donations from around the country.

'It hasn't even had time to sink in yet.'

His mum, Janet, added: 'The messages of support just warms your heart.'

The family has already spent £4,500 because, although medical care was covered after negotiations with the insurance provider, expenses for the family to be at David's bedside were not paid.

David's recovery in hospital is slow but he's determined to finish his degree. David's travel insurance only covered him to ride mopeds of 55cc or less but the minimum available in Thailand is at 110cc, which is what David was riding on.

Janet wants to raise awareness of what is and isn't covered by insurance companies so other families don't go through the same ordeal.

David, who used to play for Heywood Rangers FC, turns 21 on Sunday, September 6, and hopes to celebrate at home with friends and family.

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David Eastham told he may not walk again after being catapulted from a moped